Waka

Let’s be honest, no-one has been crying out for another Peruvian or pan-Latin venue, but in the past month or so, we’ve seen Peyote in DIFC and this venue, Waka, open up.

But, if there’s one thing Latin Americans know how to do it’s party. And always with an air of effortless cool. Waka is no different. The restaurant and bar, which comes from the same team that run the altogether more serene Craft Café in d3, is great fun. The soundtrack is good (from a DJ on livelier nights), the staff look great (and are good at what they do, more importantly) and the room itself is stylish.

A long bar greets you as you enter, immediately positioning itself as somewhere to stop off before you head to the dinner table. By the time you take your seat, you’ll already be thinking about revisiting it.

When the music is loud and the place is buzzing, it feels like you’ve stumbled into a party that welcomes you in with open arms.

As for refreshments, there’s a selection of mixed drinks available that are unique to Waka, and the bar staff can also whip up something bespoke if you give them some pointers. South American hops are available, and grape, too, and prices are pretty standard for the area – they won’t break the bank.

As Business Bay continues to grow and modernise in line with Dubai Water Canal becoming a focal point of the city, it’s encouraging to see more independent and well-thought-out restaurants and bars opening in the area.

And while we didn’t think we wanted another Peruvian spot in town, when it’s done thiswell, we’re certainly not going to argue.